US Sanctions Brazilian STF Minister; Trump Imposes Tariffs on Brazilian Imports
Key Takeaways
- US sanctioned Brazilian Justice Moraes; Brazil condemned it as interference and threat to sovereignty.
- Trump imposed 50% tariffs on Brazilian imports, citing security concerns; Brazil considers countermeasures.
- Seven federal deputies lost mandates due to STF decision regarding electoral rules.
- Brazil released R$20.7 billion for discretionary spending, with Ministry of Cities receiving the most.
Top Stories
US sanctions Brazilian STF Minister Moraes, Brazil condemns interference.
On July 30, 2025, the U.S. sanctioned Brazilian Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes under the Magnitsky Act, leading to strong condemnation from President Lula, the STF, and other Brazilian officials, who viewed it as unacceptable interference in Brazil's judiciary and a threat to sovereignty. The sanctions, which included asset freezes and visa restrictions, were linked to Moraes' actions against former President Bolsonaro, prompting Brazil to consider countermeasures and reaffirm its commitment to judicial independence.
Trump imposes 50% tariffs on Brazilian imports, Brazil responds.
On July 30-31, 2025, former U.S. President Trump imposed 50% tariffs on Brazilian imports, citing policies threatening U.S. security and the trial against Jair Bolsonaro, prompting the Brazilian government to consider sector-specific measures and potential countermeasures. Exemptions were made for certain products, and the Brazilian government is assessing the impact, with some estimates suggesting significant job losses and economic impact.
Seven federal deputies lose mandates.
On July 29 and 30, 2025, the Chamber of Deputies declared the loss of mandates for seven federal deputies based on the Supreme Federal Court's (STF) decision regarding electoral rules, with replacements announced.
Brazilian government releases R$20.7 billion for discretionary spending.
The Brazilian government released R$20.7 billion for discretionary spending, with the Ministry of Cities receiving the most at R$1.928 billion, and spending is limited to R$52.8 billion until September, due to improved revenue projections.
Political Pulse
Eduardo Bolsonaro criticized for actions related to US sanctions.
Eduardo Bolsonaro faced criticism for prioritizing family interests over national interests in the context of U.S. sanctions and tariffs, with the TCU exempting him from an investigation into alleged misuse of public funds. He celebrated the U.S. sanctions against STF Minister Alexandre de Moraes and called for amnesty for those involved in the January 8 attacks.
Bolsonaro declines to comment on US sanctions against Moraes.
Former President Jair Bolsonaro declined to comment on the U.S. sanctions against Supreme Court Minister Alexandre de Moraes, stating he had nothing to do with it, while his son, Eduardo Bolsonaro, was involved in advocating for the sanctions.
Flávio Bolsonaro thanks Salvini for attention to Carla Zambelli.
Flávio Bolsonaro thanked Italian Vice-Premier Matteo Salvini for his attention to Deputy Carla Zambelli, who was arrested in Italy on July 29 after being a fugitive.
Bolsonaro trial unaffected by US sanctions.
The U.S. sanctions against Minister Alexandre de Moraes do not affect the trial of Jair Bolsonaro and allies for the coup plot, with the trial continuing within the legal deadlines and a decision expected in September.